Extraordinary 80s: Planning for the Rest of Your Life

Okay, we’re in our 80s. We’ve outlived the average lifespan, but we don’t know how much time remains. Maybe the question to ask ourselves is not, “How long do I have left?” but “How do I want to live the years I still have?”

For example, I’m 83 and feel pretty good. My blood tests look good, I exercise every day, eat well and have an active social life. My doctor believes I may live at least another 10 years. I’m aiming for 100, so I plan for somewhere between 10 and 17 more years.

But how do we plan for this stage of life? My friend Roy Grieshaber has approached this question thoughtfully. Also 83 and without children, he began planning more intentionally after noticing changes during a recent trip. Walking, climbing and standing were more difficult, reminding him that it was time to prepare for the years ahead.

His focus turned to simplifying life while addressing long-term physical well-being, peace of mind and financial security.

A key early decision was whether to remain at home or move to a care facility if his abilities decline. His professional fiduciary, who he already authorized to manage his financial affairs, can support either path, arranging full-time home care or overseeing a transition to a facility. His preference is to stay at home.

Creating a manageable living space for himself came next. Maintaining a large house and garden no longer felt practical, so he moved into an apartment better suited to his needs. After relocating the belongings he wanted to keep, he hired an estate sale professional to handle the rest. Letting go of a lifetime of possessions proved surprisingly freeing, he said.

Maintaining his physical health is central to Roy’s plan. He works with a personal trainer twice a week, focusing on balance, coordination, strength and cardiovascular fitness. He walks regularly, eats well and stays socially connected. Anticipating the day he may no longer drive, Roy still volunteers as a driver for a nonprofit that serves seniors — his way of paying it forward.

When the time comes, his fiduciary can also help coordinate his health care, with a registered nurse available to advocate for him within the system if needed.

Financially, Roy feels secure. He and his late husband planned carefully, with major assets held in trusts to avoid probate. Their estate will ultimately support an endowment they established at the Humboldt Area Foundation.

Roy said he is at peace and comfortable with this plan. With fewer responsibilities and trusted support in place, he feels free to enjoy life and continue the adventure of growing older, wherever it leads.

Joan Rainwater-Gish, a personal trainer and chair of the Senior News Community Advisory Council, and her friend Roy Grieshaber both live in Eureka.